Switzerland Reopens Embassy in Iraq After 33-Year Absence
Switzerland has reopened its embassy in Baghdad, marking its return to Iraq after a 33-year hiatus following the Gulf War.
The Iraqi Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday that the embassy’s reopening is part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance cooperation between the two nations. The Ministry expressed its commitment to fostering a deeper partnership and dialogue with Switzerland and is working to create favorable conditions for this enhanced collaboration.
According to Swiss media outlet SWI swissinfo.ch, the Swiss Foreign Ministry cited the improved security situation in Iraq as a key factor in the decision to re-establish diplomatic presence in the country. This move aligns with Switzerland’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the Middle East and North Africa.
The Swiss Embassy highlighted that the improved security environment in Iraq has made it feasible to reopen the mission, with immigration issues likely to be a major topic of discussion between the two countries. Iraq’s potential for long-term export and investment opportunities, especially in the energy sector, is seen as a significant factor for Swiss interests.
While the Swiss embassy in Amman, Jordan, will continue to handle consular services and visa inquiries, the reopening of the Baghdad embassy marks a significant step in revitalizing diplomatic relations. The Iraqi Foreign Ministry welcomed this development, noting that it reflects a shared desire to elevate and strengthen bilateral ties.
Switzerland had closed its embassy in Iraq following the 1991 Gulf War, which was launched to remove Iraqi forces from Kuwait. The subsequent years of instability, including the Islamic State’s control of Mosul until 2017, further complicated diplomatic engagements.
